The MKZ does show a new direction for Lincoln. A key element in this shift is offering luxury vehicles that are able to engage the driver instead of treating him or her as another occupant who happens to be seated behind the steering wheel. The MKZ succeeds in this respect, managing the difficult trick of delivering a ride that is generally comfortable with handling that makes it interesting and gratifying to drive quickly on a challenging country road.

This sedan's advantages include a competitive price and the availability of all-wheel drive (front-wheel drive is standard), which isn't offered on most of the MKZ's competitors. The drawbacks include its lack of electronic stability control or skid-management electronics.